ďI grew up in the health and beauty industry. My mother worked in a salon, and Iíve had a passion for the business since I was a young girl growing up in Oakville. I love this industry and Iíve applied and continuously expanded my skills for over 20 years. My husband Bryon and I moved to Meaford 21 years ago, and I started my business by offering my services out of our home.

Bryon and I have traveled extensively and no matter where we go, we seek out spas. Thatís how weíve picked up new ideas, products and treatments for our own business. Itís always been our goal to give our clients the very best, to make them feel and look great. I love to share what Iíve learned over the years with people who come into our spa.

Those were great years, and I built a loyal base of very fine clients. But our success just outgrew the home-based operation. We needed to accommodate the growth Meaford has experienced over the past few years, and Bryon and I decided we wanted to be part of Meafordís vibrant downtown.

What we envisioned was a cosy spa, a relaxing haven in this beautiful little town. People would get the high-end health and beauty treatments they would expect in a big city or resort area, without having to travel far. We wanted our spa to be tranquil, spotlessly clean and personable, a quiet, intimate space where guests relax and enjoy an exclusive, full-spa experience. We carry the best product lines available, such as Clayton Shagal European skin-care, Shellac, OPI, Gehwol, Gel and Acrylic nails, and Australian Gold, along with new natural products and nutritional supplements including Thentix, Yum skin-care and Veema.

In August 2006, we opened Solitudes Spa on Meafordís main street. My intense background in the industry allows me to provide all the services we offer at Solitudes. Janine Doucette, with 23 years experience is the owner/esthetician. Our qualified staff carry very high standards offering excellent spa services. Jen King has 15 years experience as a senior esthetician. Nicole Lye specializes in manicures and pedicures. Michelle Johnston is the spa receptionist.

Bryon and I love Meaford and believe itís important to get out into our community. We take every opportunity to spend time as a family with our 14-year-old daughter Haley and our two dogs. If we are not out walking on the trails, we are skiing or hiking. It is a busy life, I believe very much in the benefits of yoga, meditation, and nutritional supplements to balance that. I feel that to look great you have to feel great from within.

Each time I go to the spa it is a great experience. Janine always works to a very high standard. She carries excellent products and she always has a smile for you no matter how busy she is. She makes me feel like a special client each time I go to the spa. The ambience in the new spa just enhances what has always been a relaxing, wonderful hour or two with Janine working her magic." Lynn Johnston, Meaford